Bobby is an enthusiastic young musician who wants to join the orchestra, but Strauss the Conductor must teach him the basics of an orchestra first. Through the antics of these two engaging puppet characters, this program provides insight into the conductor as well as the string section of the orchestra. Exploring the history and development of ancient chordophones to the modern day violin, viola, cello, double bass, and harp, the video shows these instruments in action and examines a range of playing techniques and varying timbres, while also highlighting the important role of the conductor.

Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on February 10, 2013. Learn360 is distributed by Infobase for Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Cambridge Educational, Meridian Education, and Shopware.

What's an Orchestra? (2:50) -- Orchestra and Conductor (1:52) -- Conductor's Job (2:42) -- History of the String Family (1:48) -- String Family (2:23) -- Instruments of the String Family (2:19) -- Young Musicians Play (3:53) -- Sound Variation and Playing Techniques--Violin and Viola (2:33) -- Cello and Double Bass (2:53) -- Independence From the Orchestra (2:29) -- String Ensembles (2:43) -- Credits: Conductor and Strings--The Orchestra (0:51).